Micheal Hoffman is quickly making a name for himself as head coach of the Bridgeland boys basketball program through his dedication, passion and leadership skills. With nine years of coaching experience, eight of those being at Cypress Falls High School, he is now in his first year at Bridgeland High School. Hoffman brings a fresh yet seasoned perspective to his new team. His journey reflects a love for basketball and a commitment to developing a team built on culture and leadership among his players. Hoffman’s ideas emphasize winning games and showing growth, responsibility and a sense of unity among his athletes.

“Every game [Coach Hoffman] would be screaming and chanting and motivating us,” sophomore basketball player Dylan Rogers said. “He is all for us and trying to win.”
Hoffman acknowledges that his first year at Bridgeland has been challenging, but he remains optimistic about the future. Despite a tough season that ended with a 17-17 overall record and 4-10 in district play, Hoffman respects his players for adjusting to his new approach. Under the challenges and adjustments to a different coach, the players responded well and showed resilience and adaptability.
“I think we got something growing here,” Hoffman said. “It’s always difficult, especially for seniors who are used to three years of doing it one way and now changing up a little bit. I respect those guys for buying into what we wanted to do.”
Looking ahead, Hoffman is determined to improve the players’ technical skills on the court and the overall team culture. His vision involves having a group of versatile, adaptable and capable players who can contribute from anywhere on the court. Despite the team’s lack of height, Hoffman sees potential in their length and creativity, which can be harnessed through strong and simple fundamentals.
“From day one, culture has been a priority. I envision having five guys who can handle the ball and be a threat wherever they are on the floor,” Hoffman said. “We may not have a ton of height, but we have good length and players who can create for others and knock down open shots.”
His coaching philosophy is rooted in four core beliefs: Pride, Process, Preparation and Passion. These principles shape his approach to coaching and set the standard for what he expects from his players. Pride instills a sense of responsibility for representing their school, preparation eliminates anxiety by ensuring readiness for every scenario, passion fuels dedication to the game, and embracing the process illustrates the importance of constant improvement.
“Have pride for that Bridgeland Bears across your chest. Loving being in the gym, loving the work it takes to get better—that’s the mindset I want my players to have. Be passionate about the game because if you’re not, it shows,” Hoffman said. “If I’m not prepared, I feel anxious and nervous, so I prepare for everything—practice, games, shootarounds.”
However, Hoffman also acknowledges that chemistry must be complemented by skill. Regardless of strategy, a team needs talented players who consistently perform and score when needed. Having players who can execute effectively on the court remains a non-negotiable factor for success.
“At the end of the day, you need dudes who can put the ball in the basket,” Hoffman says. “If you love playing for each other, that goes a long way.”
To motivate his players, Hoffman often points to the school’s limited playoff history as a challenge to overcome.Hoffman uses this as fuel to inspire his team to reach new heights.
“This program has only been in the playoffs once in nine or ten years. That’s not enough,” Hoffman said. “Just be better—that’s the motivation. [Let’s] get this program into the playoffs because I’m used to winning.”
In addition to his coaching responsibilities, Hoffman actively contributes to the school’s PALs program, a mentorship program that fosters leadership skills and positive relationships among students.
“When I got hired, I had no idea what PALS was,” Hoffman said. “But now, I think it’s one of the best programs a campus can offer.”
Hoffman enjoys witnessing students develop meaningful relationships with younger children during school visits. He values the deep bonds formed within the PALs group and emphasizes that the program extends far beyond structured lessons; it creates friendships that often last a lifetime.
“It’s not just structured learning—it’s about creating bonds that last a long time,” Hoffman said.
In the long term, Hoffman hopes to establish a strong, lasting culture within the program that leaves a legacy for future students. He envisions PALs as a supportive family where participants feel connected and proud of their involvement long after leaving high school.
“[Coach Hoffman]” encourages us and goes along with our jokes,” senior PALs member Daniel Burns said. “He just relates with us and makes us feel like adults and just supports us. He is really chill and can relate to us.”
Hoffman’s commitment to leadership, hard work and passion is helping to shape a new era for Bridgeland basketball—one defined by perseverance, unity and excellence. Time will tell where Coach Hoffman leads the boys’ basketball team and the PALs program.